Log Drying is the process of reducing moisture content in harvested timber from its natural green state (30-45% moisture) to levels suitable for lumber production and use. While traditional methods include air drying and kiln drying, industry best practice actually favors milling logs while still green rather than attempting to dry whole logs. Green logs cut significantly easier and faster than dried logs, while whole log drying is extremely slow and inefficient due to bark barriers that prevent proper moisture movement.
Target Moisture Levels: 6-8% for interior applications, 12-15% for outdoor construction
Drying Methods: Air drying (6-24 months) vs. kiln drying (6-8 weeks) – applied to milled lumber, not whole logs
Fiber Saturation Point: Wood becomes progressively harder to cut as moisture drops below 30%
Storage Best Practices: Elevate logs, use one-inch “stickers’ to keep slabs separated, apply end sealer within 24 hours, ensure air circulation. Avoid temperature extremes and direct sunlight.
